Roof repair in Trinity, FL

In any 12-month period, the Florida Building Code limits patching to 25 percent of a roof or roof section. When the damage is more than that, the whole roof or the affected section has to be replaced or recovered. This threshold is what the law uses to separate repair from replacement.

Trinity's median home was built in 2006, and 30 percent of its housing units went up in 2010 or later, against 18 percent countywide. That does not tell you any single roof's age or code edition. The exception applies only if your own roof was built, repaired or replaced to the 2007 code or later. If it was, only the repaired part must meet current code, and no local government can change that exception.

For insurance, a roof's age runs from the date 100 percent of its surface was built or replaced. When your roof has reached 15 years or more, your insurer has to allow an authorized inspector to examine it, and you cover the cost. For anything about your policy, contact your insurer or agent.

Because Trinity is an unincorporated census-designated place, Pasco County Building Construction Services handles your roof permits. Ordinary minor repairs can be approved by the building official without a permit under the code, so check with that office before you begin.

From June 1 through November 30 is hurricane season, and it tends to peak near September 10. After a storm, stay off the roof. From the ground, look for missing or cracked tabs, exposed felt and bare asphalt. In the attic, look for visible leaks and wet insulation. Photograph what you see, and call your insurer within the 1-year claim notice window.